Hello everyone, 

My name is Lisette Perez and a super-senior at the University of Missouri-Columbia studying Natural Resources. Thanks to the Oregon Sea Grant Summer Scholars program, I will be working with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Through their Marine Reserves Division, I will help analyze the socioeconomic impacts marine reserves have on businesses. Additionally, I will be surveying locals and non-locals to obtain their perceptions on the marine reserves. This internship has allowed me to learn about marine reserves, obtain the technical and analytical skills that I can use for future jobs.  With the work done by the scholars, we will be able to expand this project’s database and survey population.  Additionally, this project can promote education, outreach, and awareness on the marine reserves. This project is allowing is preparing us socially, academically, and professionally. It is providing us not only the opportunity to expand our professional sphere, but to gain the critical thinking, technical, and hands-on skills. 

I am very excited and honored to be a part of the prestigious program. Through this program I have been able to gain new friends, professional development opportunities, and the chance to be in a different state and region for the summer. I am originally from Chicago and being in Oregon is like being in a whole new world. This place is beautiful. I look forward to the rest of the summer and can’t wait to see what else is in store. 